Congratulations to all the 2025 Tin Man Nominees!

Tin Man Biggest Heart Award

In 2015, the Carousel Center began the Heart of the Matter & Tin Man Awards event as a way to recognize the dedication of our partners, in three categories volunteers, professional community members, and Community Prevention Advocates, the unsung heroes in the fight against child abuse.  They are the heart of how Carousel can offer services to the child victims of abuse, neglect, and maltreatment who come to our child advocacy center each year.

Why Tin Man? In the iconic 1939 movie The Wizard of Oz, the Tin Man character traveled to The Emerald City with Dorothy because he believed he needed a heart from The Wizard. In reality, he had the biggest heart. The Tin Man was humble, loving, caring, and compassionate.

The Tin Man Awards celebrates and recognizes members of our community who help build resiliency in child abuse survivors and provide exceptional service to children and/or their families in New Hanover, Brunswick, and Pender Counties.

2025 Tin Man Community Volunteer Nominees

Awarded to a community prevention advocate who goes above and beyond to prevent children from experiencing abuse. Nominees may include volunteers, professionals, and partners who improve our communities by raising awareness and supporting education efforts. These individuals go upstream to prevent children from needing Carousel Child

Bulldog and BACA (Bikers Against Child Abuse) are committed to removing fear from children’s lives and providing support, a sense of safety, and an extended family. They are a visible network and safety net for children navigating the world after trauma. Through their work, they stand for the rights of children to be protected, cherished, and loved. Seeing BACA show up for survivors at court, in school, at home, and at CCAC is a reminder that no child is alone.

Bulldog and Bikers Against Child Abuse (BACA) are dedicated to removing fear from children’s lives and creating a sense of safety, support, and belonging for those who have experienced trauma. Their commitment to empowering children goes beyond words—they provide a visible, steadfast network of individuals who serve as an extended family and safety net for children navigating their healing journey.

Through their work, BACA champions the rights of children to be protected, cherished and loved unconditionally. They stand as advocates, ensuring that children feel supported and secure as they move forward in life. Whether showing up at court, at school, at home, or at the Carousel Child Advocacy Center (CCAC), BACA’s presence is a powerful reminder that no child has to face challenges alone. Their unwavering dedication helps survivors rebuild their confidence and sense of self, proving that healing and hope are always within reach.

Tin Man Awards

There are so many charitable organizations in our Wilmington area, and for 21 years, Lighthouse Beer & Wine, owned by Jason Adams, and located in downtown Wrightsville Beach, has chosen the Carousel Child Advocacy Center as the beneficiary of the Lighthouse Beer & Wine Festival contributing almost $1 million dollars!

The funds raised through this partnership directly benefit the programs and services provided by Carousel, to continue its mission of offering trauma-focused therapy, advocacy, and support to children who have experienced abuse or neglect.

The Lighthouse Beer & Wine Festival is more than just an event; it is a celebration of community, compassion, and generosity. By bringing people together to enjoy an array of beverages and entertainment, the festival creates an opportunity for our community to unite around a common goal—supporting children and families in need. This ongoing partnership is a testament to the power of local collaboration and the generosity of Wilmington’s residents.

2021 Tin Man Awards

Joy is a significant part of the healing journey, and it lies at the heart of the therapy services offered at Carousel CAC. Every child and family who engages with Carousel services takes brave steps toward overcoming trauma, building resilience, and reclaiming hope. After weeks, sometimes months of therapy, Carousel recognizes each client who completes a full course of trauma therapy with a Graduation ceremony.  Nothing Bundt Cakes makes it even sweeter by contributing a cake to celebrate the hard work and dedication they put into their sessions. Carousel believes that it is essential to celebrate these milestones essential to the healing process, and the generous support of Nothing Bundt Cakes truly makes these moments special.

2025 Tin Man Community Prevention Advocate

Awarded to a community prevention advocate who goes above and beyond to prevent children from experiencing abuse. Nominees may include volunteers, professionals, and partners who improve our communities by raising awareness and supporting education efforts. These individuals go upstream to prevent children from needing Carousel Child Advocacy Center’s services in the future.

Dr. Michelle Cathorall is nominated for her exceptional leadership and commitment to child sexual abuse prevention through research and collaboration. As a key partner of Carousel Child Advocacy Center, she has been instrumental in the success of the Tri-County Child Sexual Abuse Prevention Initiative by leading a five-year longitudinal research study to assess its societal impact. Dr. Cathorall has dedicated countless hours to designing surveys, securing approvals, and analyzing data from over 6,000 training participants across New Hanover, Brunswick, and Pender Counties. Her research continues to provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of prevention education, equipping Carousel with data-driven strategies to strengthen efforts. By conducting this work pro bono, she has ensured that vital resources are directed toward the community, amplifying the initiative’s impact. The study’s success is expected to inspire a statewide research effort, further enhancing prevention programs and shaping future efforts. Dr. Cathorall’s dedication to ensuring the sustainability and effectiveness of these efforts underscores her commitment to the well-being of children.

Tin Man Awards

Gina Solari has dedicated her professional life to advocating for and helping children in her community. She has worked in schools, at Carousel Child Advocacy Center, and now back in the school system, where she continues to be a “fan favorite” among community partners due to her expertise, knowledge, grace, and professionalism.

During her time at Carousel, she was a passionate advocate, therapist, and forensic interviewer, playing a key role in establishing the Problematic Sexual Behavior (PSB) program and educating the community on its importance. Now, as a therapist in the New Hanover County school system, she continues to provide support, empathy, and empowerment to children.

Beyond her full-time job, Gina works in private practice, further demonstrating her dedication to reducing barriers and meeting children’s needs. She truly embodies the “Biggest Heart” award, making an impact in every role she takes on.

2021 Tin Man Awards

Major Sammy Turner is nominated for his extraordinary leadership in child sexual abuse prevention. He led the Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office to earn the prestigious Partner in Prevention designation, making it the first law enforcement agency in the region—and the largest in North Carolina—to achieve this milestone. His efforts ensured over 320 officers completed an intensive 3-hour prevention workshop, while also recruiting officers from neighboring police departments to participate. Major Turner’s leadership equipped officers with critical skills to recognize, prevent, and respond to child sexual abuse, enabling them to identify subtle signs, intervene effectively, and connect families with vital resources. He worked to ensure officers were equipped to better protect the public as well as their own loved ones, fostering a ripple effect of safety that extends throughout our communities. By shifting the focus from intervention to prevention, he raised the bar for collaboration, education, and proactive policing. His work is an inspiring model for law enforcement statewide, embodying a profound commitment to protecting children.

2025 Tin Man Community Professional

Awarded to a community multi-disciplinary team partner who goes above and beyond in their efforts to assist child victims of abuse. Nominees may include area Law Enforcement, Prosecutors, DSS Social Workers, Advocates, Medical Providers, Clinicians, or others who collaborate with Carousel Child

Taylor Antczak, a dedicated caseworker with New Hanover DSS, is committed to supporting families with compassion, expertise, and creative problem-solving. She plays a vital role in ensuring that children and caregivers receive the resources they need to navigate difficult situations.

Taylor consistently arrives at Child Medical Exams (CMEs) prepared, bringing not only critical case information but also a compassionate and understanding approach. She works closely with families, ensuring they feel supported and heard throughout the process.

As a key member of the multidisciplinary team (MDT), Taylor excels at providing referrals, resources, and guidance to families and community partners. She is proactive in her approach, ensuring that services are accessible and tailored to the unique needs of each case.

Her dedication, professionalism, and ability to collaborate effectively make her an invaluable asset to both DSS and the broader child advocacy community, ensuring that children and families receive the best possible support.

Tin Man Awards

Detective Ross Benton

Detective Ross Benton is a dedicated investigator currently assigned to the New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office Digital Evidence Lab. With several years of experience as a detective, much of his work has been focused on protecting children and ensuring justice for victims of online crimes.

Detective Benton is deeply passionate about helping children, particularly in cases involving Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC). He has worked tirelessly to identify, track, and bring to justice those who exploit and harm minors. His expertise in digital forensics has allowed him to find new and innovative ways to investigate these crimes, utilizing advanced technology to uncover evidence and ensure that offenders are held accountable.

Beyond his technical skills, Detective Benton is a compassionate and dedicated advocate for victims and their families. He takes the time to explain the law enforcement process, offering guidance and support to families as they navigate the challenges of seeking justice. His ability to balance technical expertise with empathy makes him an invaluable asset to both his team and the community.

Detective Benton’s impact on children and families in New Hanover County is immeasurable. He has helped countless victims find justice and safety, ensuring that every child he works with knows they are heard, valued, and protected. His dedication goes far beyond his job description—he truly puts his heart and soul into every investigation, leaving a lasting impact on the lives he touches.

2021 Tin Man Awards

Detective Robert Britton, Town of Leland Police Department, has always put the child above everything. He is consistently present, prepared, and compassionate, offering unwavering support to both children and caregivers. He never shies away from difficult conversations, whether comforting a distressed parent or explaining the complexities of the legal system, even when charges may not occur.

His compassion is unwavering—  he will jump in to support a caregiver during a Child Medical Exam (CME), answering questions with patience and providing sound advice on safety and healing.

Beyond his professional role, he embodies empathy in every aspect of his life. As a foster parent, he respects boundaries and applies his knowledge to nurture and advocate for the children in his care. His heart, dedication, and kindness are evident in everything he does, making a profound impact on the lives he touches.

Pam Brunson, New Hanover County, Child Protective Services (CPS), is a fierce advocate for children who have experienced abuse and or neglect in our community. She goes above and beyond to ensure children are safe and protected as a child protective services supervisor. Before her role as a CPS supervisor, Pam worked as a social worker in the field for many years investigating child abuse and providing the needed services to children and families to ensure they are safe in their homes. Now as a supervisor, she supports her social workers as they do the same. The social workers under Pam’s supervision have nothing but great things to say about her. There was one time where she spent all night teaching one of her workers how to take custody and staying with them until midnight to ensure they were supported and felt confident in the process. She shows up to MDT monthly advocating for the children on her workers caseload and ensuring those kids have a loud voice in the room. If there is a question about a case, she refuses to stay silent even when the conversations may be hard. Pam is the first one to jump in and offer a helping hand to families in need and always gives them the benefit of the doubt. Pam has been in the field of child protection for a long time, and there is no one with a bigger heart!

Tin Man Awards

Alessandra Camden, New Hanover County, Child Protective Services (CPS), embodies the true spirit of a dedicated social worker, consistently demonstrating commitment, compassion, and an unwavering focus on child safety. She is a strong advocate for the families she serves, ensuring that every decision she makes is informed by thorough research and careful consideration. Reliable and determined, Alessandra follows through on her promises, reinforcing trust with the children and families in her care.

Her dedication goes beyond the standard workday—she works late nights and weekends to ensure that children are protected, prioritizing their well-being above all else. In her role as a Child Protective Services (CPS) Social Worker, Alessandra goes the extra mile to provide children with the resources they need to heal from trauma and reclaim their childhood. Whether it’s researching services, making referrals, or breaking down barriers to access, she ensures that every child she works with receives the care and support they deserve.

Alessandra understands the importance of meeting families where they are, offering compassion and collaboration as they work together toward the common goal of keeping children safe and creating an environment where they can thrive. She builds strong partnerships with community organizations and multidisciplinary teams throughout CPS investigations, ensuring that nothing falls through the cracks. Her ability to advocate fiercely for children while working collaboratively with families and professionals makes her an invaluable asset to the field.

Alessandra’s passion for child welfare is evident in every aspect of her work. She is a true champion for children, embodying the values of advocacy, empathy, and dedication. Her heart for this work shines through in every interaction, making a lasting impact on the children, families, and colleagues who are fortunate to work alongside her.

2021 Tin Man Awards

Chelsea Croom, VSP, Program Manager, Rape Crisis Center,

Chelsea is a dedicated advocate whose unwavering commitment to survivors of abuse is truly inspiring. During the trial of Michael Hasson, the oral surgeon ultimately found guilty on all 24 charges related to the sexual abuse of multiple patients, Chelsea led her team of advocates to provide essential courtroom support to survivors. Some of these individuals were children or teenagers at the time of their assaults, and even though they had become adults by the trial, they still required support as they faced the legal process.

Understanding the deep impact of trauma, Chelsea ensured that every survivor present had an advocate by their side. Her leadership created a safe and supportive environment, offering reassurance, strength, and validation during what was an extremely difficult experience.

Chelsea’s commitment to survivors did not end with the trial. She and her team have continued to organize events, outreach, and long-term support services, recognizing that healing is an ongoing journey. Whether through peer support groups, resources, or community initiatives, Chelsea remains a pillar of encouragement for those affected.

Beyond this case, Chelsea’s impact extends to people of all ages in our community. She has dedicated herself to ensuring that survivors—whether children, teens, or adults—feel seen, heard, and supported. Her work is a testament to her unparalleled dedication, compassion, and leadership.

To work alongside Chelsea is to witness true advocacy in action. Her selflessness and commitment to the well-being of others make her an irreplaceable force in the community. It is an honor to know her, collaborate with her, and witness firsthand the profound difference she makes in the lives of survivors.

Leigh Isle, Pender County Department of Social Services is dedicated and always prepared for every case she attends. She keeps an open mind and keeps the family updated.

During a recent case she, was diligent in knowing information about the case, understood the nuances of the case, and remained open to any new information. She kept the family informed about the case and worked with the team to find ways to support this family. Her heart is very big indeed!

This nominee is a dedicated and compassionate professional who consistently approaches every case with thorough preparation, an open mind, and a deep commitment to supporting families. She ensures that families stay informed throughout the process, providing clarity and reassurance during difficult times.

In a recent case, she demonstrated exceptional diligence in understanding the complexities and nuances of the situation. She remained open to new information, actively listened to all perspectives, and collaborated closely with the multidisciplinary team to find the best ways to support the family. Her ability to balance professionalism with empathy ensured that the family felt heard, valued, and supported.

Her unwavering dedication and big heart make a significant impact on the families she serves. She is an advocate, a guide, and a source of strength, always going the extra mile to ensure that children and caregivers receive the support and resources they need.

Tin Man Awards

Detective Phillip Ivins, has dedicated over a decade to law enforcement with the New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office, currently serving as a Crimes Against Children Detective. He works tirelessly to ensure children’s safety, investigating cases ranging from misdemeanor child abuse to felony child sexual abuse.

Recently, he took the initiative in targeting online predators, seeing it as a proactive way to protect children. In October, he assisted in a five-day undercover operation, leading to the arrest of 23 individuals seeking to engage in sexual acts with minors.

His passion for justice sets him apart. He often works after hours, ensuring victims’ voices are heard and perpetrators are held accountable. He collaborates daily with community partners to provide the best care for victims. His dedication, compassion, and relentless pursuit of justice make him truly deserving of recognition.

2021 Tin Man Awards

Rebecca Morgan is an investigative social worker with Brunswick County DSS, known for her compassion, dedication, and unwavering advocacy for children and families. She approaches every case with empathy and respect, ensuring that each child feels heard, valued, and protected.

A CCAC Forensic Interviewer shared, “Though my role in keeping kids safe is limited, I know that when Rebecca is involved, my kids will be okay. It makes my job easier and my heart rest better.”

Rebecca goes above and beyond to ensure the well-being of children while holding adults accountable. She collaborates with community partners to provide essential care and services. In one case, she empowered a young survivor of sexual abuse by reinforcing that she was in control of her own choices, offering unwavering support.

Rebecca’s kindness, patience, and fierce advocacy make her an invaluable champion for children, ensuring they receive the protection and support they deserve.

Michelle Morton, Brunswick County, Assistant District Attorney, is recognized for her dedication, collaboration, and commitment to serving children and families. She works closely with forensic interviewers, family advocates, and multidisciplinary team members, fostering a cooperative and supportive approach to navigating the legal system.

Michele understands that the legal process can be overwhelming for children and their families, and she brings humanity, respect, and compassion to every case. Her ability to balance professionalism with empathy makes her an invaluable partner to Carousel Child Advocacy Center (CAC). She plays a crucial role in ensuring that children receive the care and resources they need, including referring them to Child Medical Exams, which are essential for their well-being and healing journey.

Through her work, Michele Morton continues to be a strong advocate for child protection, ensuring that every child has access to justice, safety, and the support they deserve.

The New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office (NHCSO) Crimes Against Children (CAC) unit exemplifies what it means to be true advocates for children. Their work goes beyond just investigations—they are dedicated, compassionate, and relentless in their pursuit of justice for child victims.

This cohesive and highly skilled unit consistently works together to ensure perpetrators are held accountable while prioritizing the well-being of the children and families they serve. Every member of the team puts 100% of their heart into their work, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to child safety. They go above and beyond, even connecting families with detectives outside of their jurisdiction to ensure that no case goes unnoticed and justice is served.

One of the most remarkable qualities of this unit is its responsiveness and professionalism. They collaborate seamlessly with other agencies in the community, ensuring that cases are handled with care, thoroughness, and efficiency. Whether working with forensic interviewers, victim advocates, social workers, or prosecutors, they demonstrate a deep understanding of trauma-informed practices, making each child feel heard and supported throughout the investigative process.

Beyond their official duties, this unit shows incredible dedication off the clock, constantly going the extra mile to ensure that every child on their caseload—and even those who are not—is protected and given a voice. They understand that their work is about more than just investigations; it’s about healing, advocacy, and creating a safer future for children in the community.

There are countless positive things to say about this exceptional unit, but at the core of it all, they are simply amazing at what they do. They never lose sight of who they do it for—the children who deserve safety, justice, and a future free from harm.

Tin Man Awards

Scott Rodriguez. RADAR, is an innovator and pioneer in the field of forensic interviewing. Through his work at Carousel, he supports the Forensic Interviewers (FIs) to ensure that interviews are forensically sound and have the most potential to get a child justice.

He is kind, intelligent, and provides excellent feedback so that FIs can provide high-caliber services. He has trained hundreds of community partners in the tri-county area in trauma-informed interviewing and supports MDT partners with creative problem-solving. Beyond being knowledgeable, Scott’s passion is what truley distinguishes him in his role.  It is clear that he eats, sleeps, and breathes what he does!  But even more than that, he has a way to communicate areas of improvement that are both motivating and encouraging.  His presence is consistently reassuring and supportive- which helps us to focus on our role as forensic interviewers.

More than just a skilled trainer and leader, Scott has a unique way of communicating areas for improvement in a motivating and encouraging manner. His presence is consistently reassuring, supportive, and inspiring, allowing forensic interviewers to focus on their critical role with confidence.

His dedication, knowledge, and heart make him an invaluable asset to CCAC and the broader child advocacy community, ensuring that children’s voices are heard and justice is pursued with care and integrity.

2021 Tin Man Awards

Joell Schigur, is a patient, steadfast, and empathetic social worker who goes above and beyond to ensure child safety while strengthening family support systems. She remains child-focused while also empowering families, thinking outside the box to connect them with resources and long-term solutions.

Her dedication to child protection is unwavering. In a recent case, she located a perpetrator of sexual abuse on her own, leading to an arrest and ensuring justice for the child. She never gives up—when something doesn’t seem right, she digs deeper to find the missing pieces.

In another case, when concerns about a caregiver arose, she took extra steps to ensure safety, requesting out-of-state DSS involvement and following up when action wasn’t taken. Joell’s relentless advocacy, compassion, and commitment to justice ensure that every child she serves has the best chance for a safe and successful future.

Christine Shuler, as the victim advocate for felony child abuse cases in the New Hanover County DA’s Office, Christine is the main conduit and resource for our victims & their families as they navigate a daunting criminal justice system.

The public sees the prosecutor in court, but most people don’t realize that without Christine there would be no successful cases. Christine is the one bonding with our victims over playdates and games—often on nights or weekends. When our victims & families are freaking out, Christine is the one talking them off the ledge and reassuring them. When victims seamlessly appear in court prepared to testify, that’s Christine. When victims are waiting for hours or days while a jury deliberates, Christine is the one in the courtroom providing comfort and support.

Christine’s compassion & desire to help our victims seek justice are displayed everyday, and I’ve seen it firsthand for years. NHC is a safer place for kids because of Christine.

Tin Man Awards

Detective Ben Simmons, as a partner, he set out to learn all he could about each case. He is truly dedicated to ensuring that each child has justice, and is safe.

During a recent case, the circumstances were truly difficult to hear. This nominee, worked through the case, looking for every bit of evidence and his thoroughness helped ensure that justice. Once hearing the details of what had happened, he investigated and searched for the best way to hold everyone in the household accountable for not keeping the children safe. He had the absolute biggest heart for those children, and he used his heart, and mind to work this case to ensure that the children were safe and justice was upheld. In the end, the children would know that what happened to them was wrong and someone would be held accountable for their actions.

2021 Tin Man Awards

Allie Smith is a dedicated Assistant District Attorney for Brunswick County. Through her work, she collaborates closely with CCAC, the multidisciplinary team, and families to pursue justice through the legal system. She is transparent and genuine with families, acknowledges the challenges/barriers that the system may present, and is committed to supporting children. Through her prep work with families and MDT partners, she demonstrates kindness, professionalism, and a commitment to a world without child abuse.

Previous Tin Man “Biggest Heart” Award Winners

Community Professional of the Year

Lance Oehrlein, NHC District Attorney, NC 9th District

Community Volunteer of the Year

Audrey Cox, NC Guardian ad Litem Program

NEW Category in 2024
Community Prevention Advocate of the Year

Tanya Jordan

Professional

Daniel Ruisueño – Wilmington Police Department

Volunteer

Linda King – Carousel Center Volunteer – Greeter

Professional

Detective Sydni Starnes, New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office

Volunteer

Beth Bell, Carousel Center Volunteer – Greeter

https://youtu.be/7Tl0Q1nuHYo

Community Volunteer

CarpetSmart of Wilmington

2021 Tin Man Awards

Jon Blackburn

2021 Tin Man Awards  Detective Stephen Baize, Brunswick County Sheriff’s Department

2019 

Professional Volunteer       

Jason W. Smith, Assistant District Attorney,             
Sixth Prosecutorial District

2019

Professional                                                           Volunteer

Detective Chawana Moore-Johnson                Justin Sorrells
New Hanover County Sherriff’s Office            GLOW Academy

2018   

Professional:                                  Volunteer:

Detective Holt Wooddell                   Danielle Boisse
Wilmington Police Department       Port City Design Group

2017

Professional:

Marino, Wanda – Assistant Director-New Hanover DSS

Volunteer:

Vandenberg, Angelena – Volunteer Therapist – UNCW School of Social Work

2016   

Professional:

Clinard, Steve – Det. Sgt. Pender County Sheriff’s Office

Volunteer:

Snyder, Michael – Carousel Center Greeter

Community Professional – Awarded to the Multi-Disciplinary Team (MDT) members who were present at the official National Children’s Alliance Site Visit on December 10, 2014, and made it possible for The Carousel Center, Inc. to achieve full Child Advocacy Center Accreditation Status:

Amy Horgan, CoastalCare

Colleen Mistovitch, New Hanover Regional Medical Center

Det. Peter Oehl, Wilmington Police Department

Lance Oehrlein, Assistant District Attorney – NC 5th Judicial District

Det. Justin Ovaska, Wilmington Police Department

Amy Phillips, Rape Crisis Center of Coastal Horizons Center, Inc.

Kari Sanders, New Hanover County Department of Social Services

Det. Kelly Sellers, New Hanover County Sheriff’s Department

Det. Mike Tenney, Wilmington Police Department

Lt. Thomas Tilmon, Wilmington, Police Department

Det. Amy Womble, New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office

Community Volunteer – Awarded to community volunteer(s) who go above and beyond in their efforts to assist child victims of abuse through thick and thin.  These Biggest Hearts in the Cape Fear Community give of their time, energy, talents, and/or financially to ensure The Carousel Center remains available for children and families who need Child Advocacy Center services:

Bill & Debbie Rudisill

Register to attend the Heart of the Matter & Tin Man Awards luncheon
Donate!